KULGAM: A review meeting of the District Level Coordination Committee for the implementation of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA)-2003 under National Tobacco Control Program was held today at the mini-secretariat Kulgam. The meeting was convened under the chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kulgam, Viqar Ahmad Giri.

During the meeting, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) highlighted the pivotal roles and responsibilities of various departments and stakeholders in curbing tobacco use and ensuring strict enforcement of tobacco control measures across the district.

ADC directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) and other concerned officers to strictly enforce the provision prohibiting the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. He also instructed that all government offices and institutions must ensure a tobacco-free environment.

Emphasizing the urgent need for collective responsibility, Giri urged all stakeholders to work in close coordination to ensure the rigorous implementation of COTPA-2003, thereby safeguarding public health and preventing tobacco-related harm.

The meeting was attended by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Noorabad, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, and other district officers. The State Programme Associate, NTCP from the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, was also present and assured all possible technical support for effective implementation of the programme.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here